French fashion legend Pierre Cardin celebrates 70 years of design

Dakar set to return to South America

The Dakar Rally, successfully held in Argentina and Chile for the first time in January, will return to South America next year, Chilean government and organisers said on Tuesday.

AFP - Chile and Argentina will once again co-host the 2010 Dakar Rally after the success of the most recent edition of the race, Chilean government spokesman Francisco Vidal announced on Tuesday.

"The Dakar Rally will be held again in Chile and Argentina," he said. "It's a good thing for the country because the race serves as a showcase for millions of people around the world.

"The decision will be made official in press conferences held by the organisers, in Buenos Aires on Monday and in Santiago on Tuesday."

The organisers of the race, Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), confirmed the announcement via a statement: "After the success and excitement generated by Dakar 2009, which took place for the first time in Argentina and Chile, ASO and the two countries decided to keep the 2010 race in South America for its 32nd edition."

After 29 years in Africa, Dakar 2009, which took place from January 3-17, was the first race to take place in South America. The 2008 edition was cancelled on security grounds.